What Is Internet Phone Service?

The options available for phone service are multiple and changing quickly. Many people have a land line provided by a phone or cable company and a separate line for an Internet connection. Soon we may be able to use an existing Internet connection as our phone service. But is this option right for everyone? Internet phone service technology is evolving faster than traditional phone service providers and cell phone providers are able to keep up with.

The Facts

Internet phone service or Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows an adapted phone to connect to another phone over an Internet connection line.

Types

An analog telephone adapter (ATA) is provided by some services. This type of service is offered by cable companies and telephone companies but is fixed to only one location. A VoIP service provider will supply a VoIP phone. VoIP phones allow calls without the use of a computer and connect directly to the IP network. VoIP service is portable and sometimes includes the perk of multiple phone lines for the cost of one. A soft phone is a type of software that can be installed on a computer that enables VoIP calling without any special hardware.

Benefits

Some VoIP services are portable, meaning you can take your Internet phone and service with you. If you have a cabin at the lake, you can take it there and use it just as you use it at your permanent home address. VoIP international calls are very low cost. If you have relatives or friends overseas that you call often, using VoIP could save you money when calling them.

Considerations

Internet phone service is still in its infancy. New devices and improvements are introduced more quickly than they are tested. VoIP users report some frustrations. The broadband Internet connection can cut out intermittently in some areas. If this happens during a phone call, the person on the other end may not hear you. The sound quality varies across different services. It can sound tinny or just plain staticky. In addition, the phone will not work if you lose electrical service because the adapter and modem need electricity to work.

Warning

Most Internet phone services do not include a completely reliable solution for dialing emergency 911. This is a serious issue to consider when deciding on changing phone service, especially if there are children or elderly people living in the home.